Nothing quite compares to the moment when you’re craving something sweet, creamy, and satisfying, but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. That’s exactly how this Oreo pudding cup recipe came into my life , during one of those busy weeknight moments when my family was asking for dessert, and I needed something that would deliver maximum deliciousness with minimal effort.
This delightful Oreo pudding cup transforms simple pantry staples into individual portions of pure comfort food magic. The combination of rich, velvety pudding layered with crushed chocolate cookies creates that perfect balance of creamy and crunchy textures that makes every spoonful irresistible. What makes this dessert truly special is how it captures all the nostalgic flavors we love about Oreos while presenting them in an elegant, personalized format that feels both casual and special.
The beauty of this no-bake dessert lies in its simplicity and versatility , it’s equally at home at a family dinner table or a dinner party, and kids absolutely love helping to assemble their own cups.
Ingredients
For the Pudding Base:
- 2 packages (3.9 oz each) instant chocolate pudding mix
- 3 cups cold whole milk
- 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 container (8 oz) frozen whipped topping, thawed
For the Oreo Layers:
- 36 Oreo cookies, crushed (divided)
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
For Topping:
- Extra whipped topping
- Whole Oreo cookies for garnish
- Optional: chocolate shavings or mini chocolate chips
Dietary Substitutions:
- Gluten-free: Use gluten-free chocolate sandwich cookies
- Dairy-free: Substitute with coconut milk, dairy-free cream cheese, and coconut whipped topping
- Lower sugar: Use sugar-free pudding mix and reduce powdered sugar to ½ cup
Time & Planning
- Prep time: 15 minutes
- Chilling time: 2 hours minimum
- Total time: 2 hours 15 minutes
Make-Ahead Tips:
These pudding cups actually taste better when made a day ahead, allowing all the flavors to meld beautifully. You can prepare them up to 3 days in advance, making them perfect for entertaining or meal prep.
Time-Saving Strategy:
While the pudding sets for the initial 5 minutes, use that time to crush your Oreos and prepare your serving glasses. This overlapping approach keeps you efficient and organized.
How to Make It
1. Prepare the Pudding Base
Whisk together the instant pudding mix and cold milk in a large bowl for 2 minutes until smooth and thickened. Let it set for 5 minutes. The mixture should be thick enough to coat the back of a spoon when properly prepared.
2. Create the Creamy Layer
In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and powdered sugar until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes. Gently fold in the thawed whipped topping, then combine this mixture with your prepared pudding until smooth and well incorporated.
3. Prepare the Cookie Crumbs
Crush 30 Oreo cookies into various sized pieces , you want some fine crumbs and some chunky pieces for texture. Mix the crushed cookies with melted butter to help them hold together slightly.
4. Assemble Your Cups
In clear glasses or small bowls, start with a layer of cookie crumbs, followed by a generous layer of pudding mixture. Repeat the layers, ending with pudding on top. This creates beautiful visible layers that look as good as they taste.
5. Chill and Finish
Refrigerate the assembled cups for at least 2 hours. Just before serving, top with additional whipped topping and garnish with remaining whole Oreos or cookie pieces.
Nutrition Overview
Each serving contains approximately:
- Calories: 385 per cup
- Protein: 6g
- Carbohydrates: 52g
- Fat: 18g
This dessert provides calcium from the dairy ingredients and offers a satisfying treat that can fit into a balanced diet when enjoyed in moderation. Nutritional values may vary based on specific brands and portion sizes used.
Healthier Variations
For a lighter version, substitute Greek yogurt for half the cream cheese and use sugar-free pudding mix to reduce calories by about 25%. You can also use reduced-fat whipped topping without significantly affecting the creamy texture.
To add nutritional value, consider mixing in a tablespoon of chia seeds or ground flaxseed into the pudding layer , they’ll add fiber and healthy omega-3s while remaining virtually undetectable in taste.
Plant-based versions work beautifully using cashew cream or thick coconut cream in place of dairy ingredients, creating an equally indulgent dessert that accommodates various dietary needs.
Serving Ideas
These pudding cups shine when served in clear glass containers that showcase the beautiful layers. For casual gatherings, mason jars create a charming rustic presentation, while elegant parfait glasses elevate them for more formal occasions.
Pair these cups with fresh berries for a pop of color and natural sweetness, or serve alongside a cup of coffee or cold milk. They make an excellent ending to barbecue dinners, potluck contributions, or simple family meals when you want something special without the fuss.

Common Mistakes & How to Fix Them
Pudding too thin: Make sure you’re using cold milk and whisking vigorously for the full 2 minutes. If it’s still thin, let it chill for an additional 10 minutes before combining with other ingredients.
Soggy cookies: Don’t add cookie layers too far in advance, or mix the butter with just a portion of the crumbs, keeping some dry for sprinkling on top just before serving.
Lumpy cream cheese mixture: Ensure your cream cheese is fully softened at room temperature before mixing. If lumps persist, blend with an electric mixer until completely smooth.
Storage & Reheating
Store covered pudding cups in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The texture actually improves over time as flavors meld together. These desserts don’t require reheating and are best served chilled.
For longer storage, you can freeze the pudding mixture (without cookie layers) for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and add fresh cookie layers before serving.
Conclusion
This Oreo pudding cup recipe proves that the most satisfying desserts don’t require complicated techniques or hours of preparation. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal hands-on time, you can create individual treats that feel both nostalgic and special. The combination of creamy pudding, crunchy cookies, and fluffy whipped topping delivers comfort in every spoonful.
What I love most about this recipe is how it brings people together , kids love helping assemble their own cups, and adults appreciate the sophisticated presentation of a childhood favorite. Give this recipe a try for your next family gathering or whenever you need a reliable crowd-pleaser that delivers big on taste with little effort.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use homemade pudding instead of instant mix?
Absolutely! Homemade chocolate pudding works beautifully, just make sure it’s completely cooled before combining with the cream cheese mixture.
What’s the best way to crush Oreos without making a mess?
Place cookies in a sealed plastic bag and gently crush with a rolling pin or meat mallet. This contains the crumbs and gives you better control over the size.
Can I make these without cream cheese?
Yes, though the texture will be lighter. You can substitute with an equal amount of additional whipped topping or try mascarpone cheese for similar richness.
How far in advance can I assemble these cups?
These taste best when made 4-24 hours ahead, allowing time for the flavors to develop and the textures to set properly.
Can I use different cookie flavors?
Definitely! Golden Oreos, chocolate chip cookies, or even graham crackers create delicious variations while keeping the same basic technique.
Why is my pudding mixture too thick or too thin?
Temperature of milk and mixing time are key factors. Use cold milk and whisk for exactly 2 minutes, then let it set before combining with other ingredients.
Oreo Pudding Cup Recipe: Easy No-Bake Dessert
- Total Time: 2h 15m
- Yield: 4 Cups
Description
Creamy Oreo pudding cup made with layers of rich chocolate pudding and crushed Oreos. A quick, no-bake dessert perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
For the Pudding Base:
- 2 packages (3.9 oz each) instant chocolate pudding mix
- 3 cups cold whole milk
- 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 container (8 oz) frozen whipped topping, thawed
For the Oreo Layers:
- 36 Oreo cookies, crushed (divided)
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
For Topping:
- Extra whipped topping
- Whole Oreo cookies for garnish
- Optional: chocolate shavings or mini chocolate chips
Dietary Substitutions:
- Gluten-free: Use gluten-free chocolate sandwich cookies
- Dairy-free: Substitute with coconut milk, dairy-free cream cheese, and coconut whipped topping
- Lower sugar: Use sugar-free pudding mix and reduce powdered sugar to ½ cup
Instructions
- Prep Time: 15m
- Chilling time: 2h
- Category: Dessert
- Cuisine: American




